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OK so ffordes are knocking a whopping 70 quid off Nikon and Canon fit MZ54i flashguns:

https://secure.ffordes.com/Shop/Stor...=FS&subcode=FG

My question: does anybody know if this model will function as either master or slave to a 550EX? I know Canon flashguns are not the easiest things in the world to get to talk to 3rd party equipment.

another 550 is like gold dust and 580 is just too much cash hence my interest.

[Steve]

I think you are probably best doing one of two things here.

The first would be to get in touch with FFordes and ask them the same question as they should know for certain if it is possible. If they say it is and you then order and find the information to have been incorrect, you'll have grounds for a return and refund.

The second option would be to buy a second-hand 550. With the 430, 580 and 580 mkII being released there should be no shortage of quality 550's at a reasonable price as others either change to newer or updated models. This is an excellent area to get a bargain plus you are keeping the flashguns to the same brand/model and that not only guarantees compatibility but makes everything easier to use (same functions/controls etc).

If it were me I would be looking at the second option but good luck in whatever you decide and please keep us informed. Its always interesting to read about other peoples experiences

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If you know of any of these mythical cheap 550's please tell me where to find them!

I've emailed Intro2020 (Metz importer) so we'll see, they're usually pretty good at answering questions about their imports.

[Steve]

Spend an hour and ring around your local photo dealers, they will take them in as part ex. Try ringing Jessops and ask have they got any at ANY branch across the country. If they have they will reserve and ship it to a branch local to you so that you can inspect it before buying (with no obligation).

You could always try posting wanted ads on the main photography sites including Pixalo? If someone sees that another person if after a 550 and they just happen to have one that they either don't use much or where thinking about upgrading to say a 580, your post may be enough to push them into starting a dialogue with you.

There is also one very big Canon specific forum that regularly has 550's offered in their members market but it has a worldwide readership, if the seller is foreign the postage could become an issue, never the less its still worth a punt.

There are many options if you really want to get your hands on a second hand 550, they are far from Mythical

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Gah - thats very good advice that this lazy so and so will probably take

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True to form ebay is crawling with them suddenly

Email from intro 2020 the flash in question won't work with canon guns but the 58 series will.